Carer's assessment in England: how to get support from your council

If you regularly look after someone, you have a legal right to a free assessment of your own needs. It is called a carer's assessment. It is not the same as the needs assessment of the person you care for: it is about your life, your health and what would make your caring role easier.

What is a carer's assessment?

It is a conversation with social services about how caring affects you and what help would make your life easier. The right to it is set out in the Care Act 2014, section 10. By law, the local council must carry out the assessment as soon as it appears a carer may have needs for support — regardless of the council's own view of those needs, and regardless of the income or savings of either party.

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Who can get one?

Anyone aged 18 or over who regularly cares for an adult — a relative, partner or friend who is ill, older or disabled — can ask for one. The law defines a carer as "an adult who provides or intends to provide care for another adult." If you care for a disabled child, contact the children with disabilities department at your council instead, as a separate process applies.

How much does it cost?

The assessment itself is free — £0 — and does not depend on your income or savings. You do not pay for the right to one. Keep the distinction in mind: it is the assessment that is free. If the council then arranges chargeable services for you, their cost may be set after a separate financial assessment (means test).

What does it cover?

The assessment looks at how you are coping and how caring affects your physical and mental health, your work, your free time and your relationships. Under the Care Act 2014, the assessor must find out whether you are able and willing to carry on caring, and what outcomes you want in day-to-day life — including work, education, training and recreation. It is your chance to say honestly where you are struggling and where you need help.

What support can follow?

The help depends on your situation. The NHS gives examples: someone to take over caring so you can have a break; gym membership or exercise classes to relieve stress; help with taxi fares if you do not drive; help with gardening and housework; training in how to lift safely; being put in touch with local support groups; and advice about benefits for carers. If you qualify for the council's help, it will write a care and support plan with you.

How do you request one?

Contact adult social services at your local council and ask for a carer's assessment. You can call or do it online on the council's website. The assessment can be carried out at the same time as the needs assessment of the person you care for — ask for both together, as it is more convenient.

What if you disagree with the decision?

Complain to the local council first. If you are unhappy with the outcome, you can contact the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman. Current forms and contacts are on the NHS and GOV.UK websites linked below.